CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A spokesman for Monongahela Power and Potomac Edison says it’s going to take some time to work through the issues individual customers have with double billing and estimated meter readings.
Todd Meyers said Wednesday the companies, both subsidiaries of FirstEnergy, will comply with the most recent order from the state Public Service Commission in connection with the controversy.
“We’re making progress but as you see the commission (PSC) wants to have, for the next year at least, consumer metrics to be placed into a report so they can review that. We’ll definitely be complying with that order.”
Customers started complaining to the PSC several months ago after meter readers with both companies fell behind following Superstorm Sandy. Meyers said they were helping with the power restoration efforts. Bills were estimated for some customers for consecutive months and the estimates were based on the previous mild winter. When the actual readings took place, customers received very expensive bills.
The PSC started its investigation in June and FirstEnergy recently asked the case be dismissed because of its work on it. But the PSC came back last Friday with more requirements. The commission also announced it would hold some public hearings.
Meyers said the companies are starting to close the gap.
“We’re working to make sure we have the meter readers out there doing what they need to do. Hopefully we’re moving in the right direction,” he said.
Mon Power and Potomac Edison are urging customers to call them to work out the issues on a one-to-one basis at 1-800-686-0022.
Meyers said the companies will also set up no-interest payment plans for customers.
Meyers says the estimation process is designed to have customers to pay for only the amount of electricity they use.
“When you have too many in a row it can get out of whack,” he said.